South Melbourne FC Announces Managerial Changes

Image credit: South Melbourne FC

South Melbourne FC shared the news this week of General Manager David Clarkson’s departure, acknowledging his significant contributions over the past 12 months as South Melbourne positions itself for entry into the proposed National Second Division.

David Clarkson in his role as General Manager has been instrumental in strengthening South Melbourne’s off-field operations during a crucial period of transition for the club.

David Clarkson has had a strong connection to the club as a hall of famer who played in Ange Postecoglou’s successful back-to-back NSL grand final teams of 1998 and 1999.

“South Melbourne FC is disappointed to announce the departure of General Manager David Clarkson, who is relocating permanently overseas with his family for an exciting new opportunity,” the club said via press release.

“David leaves with our full support and gratitude for his impact both on and off the pitch.”

Soccerscene had the pleasure of interviewing David Clarkson and South Melbourne president Nicholas Maikousis back in 2024.

In this conversation, David Clarkson explained the importance of his role as General Director in strengthening the strong relationship that South Melbourne FC has with its local footballing community.

“Where I feel I can add benefit to the club is in this community space, working with juniors and bringing people back.

“South Melbourne is a club of the people, serving the community, girls, boys, and persons with disabilities, you are welcome at our football club.

“This badge means a lot to people but only if it keeps delivering and that’s what we intend to do.”

The club has moved quickly to fill the void, appointing Strati Xynas as Interim General Manager with immediate effect.

Xynas brings extensive football administration experience to the role, having previously served as South Melbourne’s Technical Director and Head of Football.

In his new capacity, Xynas will oversee daily operations across all business areas whilst working closely with the Board of Directors on key strategic initiatives.

The club has identified strengthening relationships with members, internal departments, corporate partners, and the broader South Melbourne community as priority areas.

As the storied South Melbourne FC continues its push towards the pivotal period for Australian football’s expansion with the NSD, the club remains focused on building for the future.

The role David played was crucial in fostering an important club nucleus built on supporting local fellow football clubs, developing youth players and the wider community.

Image credit: Vitalii Vitleo / Shutterstock.com

UEFA has confirmed that Coca-Cola will once again serve as an official global sponsor for UEFA EURO 2028, marking the company’s 11th consecutive tournament. This partnership, which began in 1988, celebrates a 40-year milestone in one of European football’s longest-standing commercial relationships.

Under the renewed agreement, Coca-Cola will serve as the official non-alcoholic beverage sponsor of UEFA EURO 2028, set to take place across the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.

The deal grants Coca-Cola exclusive pouring rights at all nine host stadiums, visibility in official fan zones and villages, LED pitch-side branding, as well as global digital rights and fan engagement initiatives.

40 Years Strong: Coca-Cola and UEFA Unite Fans Worldwide

UEFA’s Executive Director of Marketing, Guy-Laurent Epstein, highlighted the impact and longevity of the collaboration.

“Since 1988, Coca-Cola has been a proud supporter of the UEFA European Football Championship. Together, we have created lasting memories across generations. As we embark on our 11th consecutive tournament together, we look forward to delivering even more memorable experiences for supporters,” he said via press release.

Javier Meza, Marketing President for Coca-Cola Europe, described the renewed deal as a key element of the brand’s wider experience-focused marketing strategy.

“UEFA EURO 2028 will mark 40 years of Coca-Cola’s collaboration with UEFA. We will proudly refresh and inspire fans in stadiums, fan zones, and at home. This partnership supports our mission to bring people together, and we look forward to creating uplifting experiences that bring fans even closer to the action,” he said via press release.

Attendees will have access to a range of Coca-Cola beverages, including Coca-Cola, Powerade, water, and ready-to-drink coffee and fruit-based drinks, with options available in low-sugar and sugar-free varieties.

Coca-Cola has played a part in many of the tournament’s most memorable moments, from the 1988 finals in West Germany to recent editions featuring advanced digital activations.

The company will leverage its rights across retail, live events, digital platforms, and in-venue experiences, advancing from traditional stadium advertising to a multi-channel approach to engage consumers.

Image credit: Macarthur Bulls FC

Macarthur Bulls FC has confirmed a colloboration with DLK Advisory, who will come on board as a corporate partner backing the Club’s business and networking events for the coming two seasons.

DLK Advisory, known for its accounting and tax services across family groups, SMEs, government, not-for-profits, and major corporations, will support the Bulls’ expanding business network by enhancing the Club’s corporate events that connect sponsors, partners, and stakeholders throughout South West Sydney and beyond.

As a key element of the affiliation, DLK Advisory will team up with the Bulls’ commercial department to create quality networking experiences that reinforce relationships within the Club’s corporate network and spotlight the energetic, forward-thinking business community linked to the A-League.

Reflecting on the new alliance, David Lilja, Director of DLK Advisory, shared his excitement about the collaboration and the values both organisations bring to the deal.

“We are proud to partner with the Macarthur Bulls as they continue to inspire their supporters and the wider community,” he said via press release.

“This partnership provides a wonderful platform to introduce our refreshed brand, DLK Advisory – a firm built on trust and driven by excellence.

“We provide strategic accounting and tax solutions to a diverse range of clients, and like the Bulls, we are committed to performance, teamwork, and achieving outstanding results. We look forward to supporting the club’s success this season.”

Mark Jensen, Chief Commercial Officer of Macarthur Bulls FC, highlighted the value DLK Advisory will bring to the club’s growing corporate network.

“DLK Advisory are a fantastic addition to the Bulls family, their expertise will add real value to our corporate events program, ensuring our partners and stakeholders have meaningful opportunities to connect, share ideas, and grow together,” he said via press release.

“This partnership reflects our commitment to delivering a first-class experience on and off the field.”

The accord with DLK Advisory opens new opportunities for the Bulls to connect with the business community, fostering innovation, growth, and shared success throughout the region.